Are we there yet?

Posted by on May 26, 2011 in Uncategorized

Turner PR is in the midst of a baby-boom in our two offices. Given that travel is a regular part of our industry, and family travel is on the rise, we wanted to share some traveling with baby/kids tips for future (or current) parents. We’ve turned to our newest mom in the Denver office, Noelani Moku, for some tips after just taking her first trip with her 5 month old baby boy to Hawaii. We also consulted with our very own Ashley Taufen, who is well versed in helping her mom travel with a crew of four younger siblings. Here is some of their advice:

Traveling with a baby

  1. Feed the baby during the flight take off and landing to help soothe the infant. Feeding will also keep the baby quiet and more comfortable during the change in cabin pressure.
  2. Bring new toys to keep the baby occupied. If the toys are new they’ll be more interested and engaged.
  3. For every hour you are traveling, whether it’s in a plane, car or just out and about exploring your favorite vacation spot, pack one diaper per hour….just in case!
  4. Beware of over packing. Pack well in advance, then edit a day or two before your departure.
  5. Pack all necessary medication in your carry-on bag, not the checked luggage. Medicine is expensive and airports typically don’t carry baby medicine.
  6. When you check-in for your flight, request pre-boarding.  Don’t wait to ask once you arrive at the gate.
  7. If you are traveling with formula or breast milk, pack it in one large container instead of individual containers to get through security faster since each individual container must be tested by TSA.
  8. All strollers must go through the x-ray machine at security, so don’t over pack the stroller.
  9. Try to keep the baby on his or her regular schedule for feedings, naps and sleep.
  10. Once the baby falls asleep on the flight, have a cocktail!  (Just one!)

Traveling with kids

  1. ALWAYS have a variety of snacks!
  2. Pack games and activities to keep kids occupied during flights or car rides.
  3. Stay one step ahead and charge the batteries on all electronics, and bring extra batteries or a charger.
  4. A portable DVD player is a must!
  5. Let kids help pack their own travel bag or at least let them help you pick out items to pack.
  6. Allow kids pick one special item to bring such as their favorite blanket, stuffed animal or movie.
  7. If your child is old enough, encourage them to keep a travel journal during the trip.
  8. Prepare kids in advance of what to expect at the airport, on the plane or during a long road trip and review the rules for going through security and safety.
  9. Hand the camera/video camera to the kids every once in a while so they can capture their own memories from their perspective.
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